The Alabama vs. Tennessee cigar tradition is a unique and long-standing tradition that takes place every year during the football game between the University of Alabama and the University of Tennessee. The tradition dates back to the 1960s and involves the winning team's fans smoking victory cigars after the game.
The tradition began in 1961 when Alabama head coach Bear Bryant and Tennessee head coach Bowden Wyatt met at midfield after the game and lit up cigars to celebrate the win. The following year, Alabama won again, and the tradition of smoking cigars after the game was born.
Since then, the tradition has continued, with fans of the winning team celebrating the victory by smoking cigars. In recent years, the tradition has expanded to include both players and fans, with cigars being passed around and smoked in the locker room and at tailgate parties.
Although smoking is no longer allowed in many stadiums, fans of both teams continue to find ways to participate in the tradition, whether by smoking cigars outside the stadium or in nearby bars and restaurants.
The Alabama vs. Tennessee cigar tradition is a unique and fun aspect of the rivalry between these two football powerhouses and is a testament to the passion and dedication of their fans.